Brooks Brothers' new addition to the family

As their bi-centenary approaches, America's oldest fashion house Brooks Brothers has a new addition to their family tree. The luxury brand, famed for their classic suits and ties to American presidents, have appointment 33 year-old Zac Posen as their new creative director for women's-wear.

Posen began his eponymous line in 2001, and ever since his designs have focused on anatomical construction, strong structures and bright colours. His daywear and women's collections often mix a simple design with high-glamour and a nod to the feminine shape. He has since designed for Michelle Obama, Gwyneth Paltrow and Naomi Watts to name a few.

Posen's appointment could spell changes for the conservative brand as he hopes to bring a modern edge to Brooks Brother's All-American image. 'I am truly honoured and excited to be embarking on this incredible opportunity to take the Brooks Brothers women's brand into the future while respecting its deep, rich American heritage as an institutional company' said Posen of his new role, which he is due to start immediately.

Brooks Brothers began in 1818 when Henry Sands Brooks, opened the first, ready-to-wear fashion emporium in Manhattan. The company was inherited by Brooks' sons in 1833 and renamed Brooks Brothers, their classic lines, conservative fabrics and masculine tailoring made them the go-to for American presidents and businessmen, indeed Abraham Lincoln and Barack Obama both wore the designs at their inaugurations and Lincoln was wearing a Brooks Brothers coat on the night of his assassination. Designs still feature in many TV shows and films and are favoured by many 'best-dressed' men.

Current Chairman and CEO Claudio Del Vecchio said 'We are thrilled to have Zac join us as creative director of our women's collection. As soon as we met, it was clear to us that he had a true understanding of our brand and its storied 196 year heritage as well as the creativity to modernise our offerings within the category."

Posen is due to start immediately and will see his first collection for the label debut for spring/summer 2016.